1980 Mercury Lynx vs. 2003 Opel Astra
To start off, 2003 Opel Astra is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mercury Lynx. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mercury Lynx would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Astra (82 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1980 Mercury Lynx. (70 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1980 Mercury Lynx. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Astra weights approximately 435 kg more than 1980 Mercury Lynx. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2003 Opel Astra (185 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mercury Lynx. (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mercury Lynx.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Mercury Lynx | 2003 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercury | Opel |
| Model | Lynx | Astra |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 82 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 121 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2620 mm |
